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A letter by George Ingram, Deputy Assistant Administrator of the US Bureau for Europe and the New Independent States Mr. Douglas M. Bloomfield, President Dear Mr. Bloomfield: Thank you for your letter detailing the recent difficulties of former Prime Minister Kazhogeldin and :events in Kazakhstan more broadly. As you know, a fundamental component of U.S. policy in Kazakhstan is promotion of democracy and human rights. Local and parliamentary elections expected this fall will again test Kazakhstan's democracy and observance of fundamental human rights. The U.S. Government remains intensively engaged with the Kazakhstani government on democracy issues. Our message has been consistent and clear: long-term stability depends on action now to build democracy and foster greater respect for fundamental commitments to the: OSCE. We have specifically urged the government to bring its legislation on elections, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the media into accordance with international standards; schedule elections far enough in advance to give parties and candidates adequate time to prepare effective campaigns, register new parties; and NGOs promptly in order to ensure broad participation in the elections, including by candidates and groups critical of the government; and broaden the central and local election commissions to include non-governmental representatives. usaid's democracy program in Kazakhstan includes supporting the development of radio and television public service announcements regarding the new election law and voting procedures. USAID has been urging the Kazakhstani Government to enact amendments to this new law to ensure broader citizen participation, and is working with local NGOs to develop civic education projects. With regard to Mr. Kazhegeldin, our State Department and Embassy personnel are in regular contact: with him as well as other representatives of the political opposition. We have made in clear to the highest levels of Kazakhstan's government that harassment of opposition figures is not acceptable. I hope this information is helpful to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance. Sincerely, Deputy Assistant Administrator |
